It began with the offering of non-degree (technical-vocational) courses in 1970s and was formally established in 1990, making it the first open learning institution in the country.

It is also known as the "Pamantasang Bayan," literally translating as "Nation's University" in Filipino.

[3] PUP Open University consists of three units: Institute of Open and Distance Education/Transnational Education, Institute of Non-Traditional Studies Program and ETEEAP, and the Center of Professional and Continuing Studies, under which the Nontraditional Study Program and Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program are under.

[4] Institute of Non-traditional Studies and ETEEAP gives an opportunity to practitioners and executives to complete their college degrees or graduate programs and earn their diplomas without having to take a leave from the jobs.

In 2007, OU has launched the Open University Learning Management System (PUPOU-LMS or eMabini), where the faculty of the OU can hold classes online to Filipino students in United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Vietnam.